THE family of the boy whose body was recovered from the Umlazi River on Tuesday are grateful they can at least give him a dignified burial.
Nkanyiso Phewa (9) from KwaNdengezi, west of Durban, drowned on Sunday after he and a friend struggled in the water while they were swimming.
His aunt Nompumelelo Mthembu (30), whose son made it out of the water alive, said four kids had gone to visit a friend across the river.
“They crossed safely on their way to their friend’s home but didn’t find him there, so they made their way back.
“They decided to swim in the river, not knowing the two of them would have problems.
“Luckily, my son found his way out of the water, but Nkanyiso drowned,” she said.
Nompumelelo said parts of the river are deep and very dangerous for kids.
She said they’ve always heard the river has a dangerous snake that often leads to drowning.
“We think it also took Nkanyiso because his friend said he went under the water, followed by strange movements. He was taken by something.
“Despite everything, we’re grateful his body was found and will be laid to rest in a dignified place.”
Colonel Thembeka Mbele said an inquest docket was opened at KwaNdengezi cop shop.
“Police divers from Durban, along with Metro police’s search and rescue team, were called to recover a nine-year-old boy’s body in KwaNdengezi.
“It was taken from the river and handed over to the police.”
